By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Dec 09, 2025 13:45 PM • 30 views
KIRTIPUR - This match was expected to be a battle between two top teams, but only the Sudurpaschim Royals rose to the occasion. They secured a spot in the Nepal Premier League 2025 final by beating the Biratnagar Kings by 77 runs in Qualifier 1 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground on Tuesday.
While many expected a close contest, the Royals’ bowlers, particularly Scott Kuggeleijn and Harmeet Singh, dismissed the Kings for only 78 runs. Sudurpaschim avenged their recent loss to Biratnagar, while the Kings must now compete in Qualifier 2 for another opportunity to reach the final.
Biratnagar captain Sandeep Lamichhane elected to bowl first, placing early pressure on the Royals. The pitch proved challenging, and the early loss of Mukhtar Ahmed (10) added to the difficulty. However, experienced wicketkeeper-batter Binod Bhandari stabilised the innings with a determined 63 off 52 balls. Though not the most aggressive performance, his contribution was essential. He struck three fours and two sixes, maintaining composure as partners Sheldon Jackson (20) and Ishan Pandey (13) were dismissed after brief starts.
Aarif Sheikh contributed valuable late runs, scoring 20 from 13 balls to help the Royals reach 155-7. Although the total was not large, every run was significant in this playoff. Biratnagar’s bowlers, including Marchant de Lange (2-23) and Pratis GC (2-31), were effective in the middle overs.
Chasing 156 appeared achievable for Biratnagar, known for its aggressive batting. However, the Kings lost early wickets, with the first falling on the opening ball. Martin Guptill was run out for 2 after a mix-up, and Naren Bhatta was dismissed for a duck, reflecting a chaotic start.
At 7-3 after two overs, the game was effectively won and lost.
Faf Fights Alone
Amid the collapse, only Faf du Plessis provided resistance. The South African veteran scored 36 off 29 balls, including three fours and a six, as wickets fell around him.
The Royals maintained pressure throughout. Harmeet Singh controlled the middle order with figures of 2-20, while Kuggeleijn delivered an impressive 2-9 from three overs. Du Plessis was dismissed by Hemant Dhami in the 11th over, effectively ending Biratnagar’s hopes.
Marchant de Lange added 15 runs, but the outcome was never in doubt. Abinash Bohara (2-22) secured the final wicket, bowling Biratnagar out for 78 in 14.1 overs.
What It Means
This victory sends Dipendra Singh Airee’s Sudurpaschim Royals directly to the grand final, giving them time to rest ahead of the concluding matches. They defended a competitive total with effective aggression and strategy.
“We knew 155 was defendable if we hit the right areas,” a jubilant Royals source said post-match. “To get their top three out for three runs? That’s dream stuff.”
For the Biratnagar Kings, the opportunity remains, but the challenge has increased. They must regroup to face the Eliminator winner in Qualifier 2. To contend for the trophy, they will need to move past this defeat quickly.
